Urinary tract infection is a condition when the organs that belong to the urinary system become infected . These organs can be the kidneys, ureters, urethra, or bladder . However, urinary tract infections commonly occur in the urethra and bladder .
Starting from the kidneys, residual substances in the blood are filtered and excreted in the form of urine. Next, urine flows from the kidneys through the ureters to the bladder. After being accommodated in the bladder, urine will be excreted outside the body through a channel called the urethra.
Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra. After that, bacteria multiply in the bladder. If left untreated, the bacteria can cause infection to the kidneys.
Types of Urinary Tract Infection
Based on the part that is infected, urinary tract infections (UTI) are divided into two types, namely:
- Upper UTI, which is an infection that occurs in the organs that are located before the bladder, namely the kidneys and ureters
- Lower UTI, which is an infection in the lower part of the bladder, namely the bladder and urethra
Upper UTI is more dangerous and must be treated immediately. If left unchecked, infection in the kidneys can spread throughout the body.
Urinary Tract Infection Symptoms and Complications
Urinary tract infections can be characterized by pain when urinating, frequent urination but little urine, and cloudy or red urine due to blood .
If left untreated, infection that has reached the kidneys can cause permanent kidney damage. In fact, it is possible that the infection will spread and cause an inflammatory response throughout the body.
Treatment and Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections
Treatment of urinary tract infections is by administering antibiotics. However, the doctor will first carry out an examination so that the type of antibiotic prescribed is in accordance with the patient's condition. Especially for patients with severe complaints, treatment must be given at the hospital. After recovery , the symptoms of a UTI that were previously experienced by the patient will generally subside
Urinary tract infections can be prevented by drinking lots of water, so that bacteria that may enter the urinary tract will always be rinsed with urine. In women, UTI can be prevented by applying the right method when cleaning the intimate organs after defecation.